Hong Kong is preparing to reopen its borders to international visitors, signaling a significant shift in its travel policies. After a complete ban on overseas travelers for the past two years, starting from May 1, 2022, new entry rules will be implemented to welcome tourists back.

Easing Restrictions

The Hong Kong government recently made an announcement through a press release, declaring the relaxation of restrictions for international travel. The decision was based on various factors, including the local epidemic situation and the capacity to manage it effectively. The Steering Committee concluded that it was appropriate to make adjustments to the relevant measures.

Regional Trend

Hong Kong's decision to reopen mirrors similar changes happening across Southeast Asia. Neighboring countries such as Thailand and Singapore have also started to ease entry requirements for foreign arrivals, reflecting a regional shift toward more open travel policies.

COVID-19 Entry Requirements

While international visitors will now be allowed entry, they must adhere to all COVID-19 entry requirements. These requirements will be consistent with those applicable to Hong Kong citizens and residents. It is crucial for travelers to familiarize themselves with the regulations and protocols in place to ensure a safe and smooth entry into the city.

Standard Immigration Rules

Additionally, standard immigration rules, including Hong Kong's visa policy, will continue to apply.

• Standard immigration rules, including Hong Kong's visa policy, will continue to apply.
• Visitors must adhere to the established visa guidelines and procedures for traveling to Hong Kong.
• Hong Kong is committed to maintaining public health and safety while facilitating the resumption of travel.
• The reopening of borders signifies a positive step towards restoring international connections and revitalizing the city's tourism industry.

Hong Kong's Travel Ban: Reopening Borders to International Visitors

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hong Kong has implemented some of the most stringent travel restrictions globally. Initially, only Hong Kong citizens and residents were allowed entry, subject to a mandatory 21-day quarantine in designated hotels upon arrival.

Easing of Restrictions and Opening to Foreign Arrivals

In April 2022, Hong Kong took a significant step towards normalizing travel by reducing the quarantine period to one week. Additionally, the city started welcoming foreign arrivals from select countries, including the UK and the US.

Promising Developments: Decreased COVID-19 Cases

Despite the influx of overseas visitors, averaging around 1,200 per day since April 1, 2022, Hong Kong has witnessed a decline in COVID-19 cases. This trend brings hope to the beleaguered tourism industry, which has suffered greatly due to the absence of international tourists over the past two years.

Hong Kong's Flight Suspension Policy: Changes and Updates

As part of its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, Hong Kong implemented a "route-specific flight suspension mechanism." This measure, although criticized for its strictness, resulted in the suspension of 25 routes between April 1 and April 20. Consequently, it prevented numerous Hong Kong residents from returning home.

Easing Restrictions for Enhanced Flexibility

As Hong Kong prepares to reopen, the flight suspension mechanism will undergo changes. Starting from May 1, 2022, routes will only be suspended if 5 or more passengers (or 5% or more of the total onboard passengers, whichever is higher) test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival. This adjustment aims to strike a balance between safety and facilitating smoother travel.

Reduced Suspension Period

In addition to the revised criteria, the period of route suspension will be shortened from 7 to 5 days. This adjustment allows for quicker resumption of affected routes, minimizing disruptions for passengers.

These modifications to the flight suspension mechanism demonstrate Hong Kong's commitment to maintaining safety while creating a more flexible and efficient travel environment.

Traveling to Hong Kong: Essential Requirements and Guidelines

Arrival Protocol: Testing and Entry

• Following the reopening of Hong Kong's borders to foreign passengers, adherence to current COVID-19 entry restrictions is mandatory for all arrivals.
• Prior to departure, travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 test result.
• Upon arrival in Hong Kong, another test will be conducted to ensure the safety of all individuals entering the city.

Modified Arrival Procedure: Transition to Rapid Antigen Tests

• The previous "test and hold" procedure for arrivals, which utilized PCR tests, will be replaced with rapid antigen tests.
• The implementation of rapid antigen tests aims to reduce waiting times at the airport, minimizing crowd gathering.
• Stringent control measures will still be maintained to mitigate the risks associated with COVID-19 importation.

By implementing these measures, Hong Kong aims to strike a balance between facilitating the entry of foreign passengers and safeguarding public health against the ongoing pandemic.

Quarantine Measures in Hong Kong: What Travelers Need to Know

International travelers visiting Hong Kong will still be required to undergo a quarantine period upon arrival. However, the mandatory quarantine period has been reduced from the previous 21 days to a more manageable duration of 7 days.

Quarantine Location: Approved Hotels

During the 7-day quarantine period, arrivals must complete their isolation in a designated and approved hotel upon reaching Hong Kong. These approved hotels have been identified to ensure a safe and controlled environment for quarantine purposes.

This update in quarantine measures aims to strike a balance between public health concerns and facilitating international travel, providing a more accessible option for travelers while maintaining safety protocols.